Six Sentenced to Life for Cross-Border Drug Smuggling by NIA Court..

Punjab Mohali : In a significant ruling, a special NIA court in Mohali sentenced six individuals to life imprisonment for smuggling drugs from across the border. The court also handed down a 10-year jail term to three other convicts. The case, which dates back to 2019, involved a large-scale drug smuggling operation orchestrated by international networks with links to Pakistan-based handlers. Investigations revealed that the accused used drones and other advanced methods to transport narcotics into Indian territory. The NIA took over the case from Punjab Police in October 2019, following the recovery of a substantial quantity of drugs, arms, and communication devices. Authorities arrested the culprits after a prolonged operation that exposed their connections with organized crime syndicates. The court found that the smugglers were actively working with handlers across the border to distribute heroin and other contraband in various parts of India. Their activities were closely monitored through intelligence inputs, leading to a crackdown on their network. During the arrests, law enforcement seized large quantities of heroin, illegal firearms, and cash linked to the drug trade. The sentencing is being seen as a major step in curbing the cross-border drug menace that has been affecting Punjab and other northern states. Officials have emphasized that the government remains committed to taking strict action against those involved in drug smuggling and organized crime. This verdict serves as a strong warning to those engaged in illegal drug trade, reinforcing the zero-tolerance policy adopted by Indian authorities. With ongoing investigations, more individuals linked to the network are expected to face legal consequences in the near future.